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The challenge of leather straps with inserts

by Pierre-Yves Martinez in Blog

The Challenge of Watch Straps with Inserts

Certain luxury watches (such as the Patek Philippe Nautilus, Audemars Piguet Royal Oak, or Hublot) use inserts—rigid metal or plastic parts inside the strap—to ensure the strap integrates seamlessly with the watch case. This provides a perfect fit both aesthetically and technically.

However, this makes replacing the strap complex: a standard, generic strap cannot be properly attached to these models.

MisterChrono Concept Solutions

To replace these specific straps while maintaining bespoke quality, the MisterChrono workshop offers two technical solutions depending on your watch model:

  1. Existing MisterChrono Inserts: For many popular models (AP Royal Oak, Patek Nautilus, Cartier Santos Dumont), MisterChrono has already developed its own metal or brass inserts.

  2. Insert Transfer (The "Sacrifice"): For other models, MisterChrono must recover the inserts from one of your old straps.

    • Process: Your old strap is dismantled to extract the insert, which is then manually sheathed in new leather.

    • Condition: The recovered insert must be in good condition. This operation is impossible to perform using a 100% metal link bracelet.

Timeline and Costs

Due to the technical complexity and the meticulous manual work required (sheathing the leather around the insert), please anticipate:

  • A surcharge is 1000 HKD compared to the base price of a standard custom strap.

  • A production time of approximately 3 weeks.

Installation

Mounting these straps is more delicate than with a classic strap.

  • In-store: Installation is complimentary.

  • Remote (Shipping): It is strongly advised to have the strap installed by a qualified watchmaker.

Examples of Brands Concerned

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 
Breguet Marine
Bulgari Octo finissimo
Cartier Santos
Corum
Dior
Ebel
Franck Muller
Girard-perregaux
Hublot Big Bang
IWC
Jaeger lecoultre 
Longines
Omega 
Patek Nautilus
Piaget
Richard Mille
Roger dubuis
Ulysse nardin
Vacheron Constantin Overseas
Zenith

 

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Find the correct strap size of your watch

⌚ Complete Guide to Choosing Your Watch Strap Choosing the right watch strap ensures both style and comfort. Follow these simple steps. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us for personalised advice. Step 1: Determine the strap Width (Lug Width) This is the most crucial measure for adjustment. Measure the lug width: Always measure the space between the lugs of the watch (where the strap attaches to the case) and not your old strap (which may have shrunk). Check this tip: The width is often engraved on the back of your current strap. Example: If the space between the lugs measures 22 mm, you need a 22 mm strap. Step 2: Choose the strap Length The ideal Length depends on the size of your wrist. A. If you know the current Length: Lay the watch flat. Measure the loop part (Part A , without the loop itself). Measure the tip section (Part B ). Total Length = A + B B. If you would like a new Length (Wrist): Measure your wrist with a tape measure and use the size chart to find the ideal size (Length A+B combined): Wrist circumference Total Length (A+B) strap Size Less than 170 mm 160 mm S 170 to 190 mm 180 mm M 190 to 210 mm 200 mm L Over 210 mm 220 mm XL Step 3: Choose the Loop Type and Width The type of clasp influences both aesthetics and security. Pay attention to the measurement: For the buckle, measure the width of the strap where the buckle attaches , as many straps taper (are thinned) between the lug and the clasp. Classic Loop Types: Loop Type Description Compatibility Pin Buckle The classic pin clasp (or tang clasp). Simple, reliable and very easy to use. Suitable for all non-metallic straps. Scissor Deployment Buckle A locking system with a single V-shaped hinge. Opens and closes from one side only. Adds a touch of elegance and reduces wear on the strap. Butterfly Deployment Buckle Double hinge clasp that unfolds symmetrically on both sides. Offers excellent support and maximum discretion. MisterChrono offers a wide selection of pin buckles, single or double folding (butterfly) buckles. Don't hesitate to contact us for more details about our products!

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